Ingmar Krause and MMD members, ( Please, anyone, join in! )

Ingmar Krause kindly replied to my initial inquiry:

> To the Organette: Well, I know about this instrument, but you have to
> help me a little: Is it 16-key or 19-key?   Something else: Does it
> work?!  I've seen lots of Ariston instruments, but hardly one of them was
> still okay, if bought from "normal" people.
>
> Well, we do have some 16-key and 19-key discs, but the most common
> Ariston discs have been (and still are) the 24-key ones.  We do reproduce
> 24-key discs in a certain limit, for it is hard manual work.  The produc-
> tion of these aren't very profitable for us, too, because the rate for
> such a disc is about 30 to 50 DM.  I'm also arranging for the 24-scale.

I received the Ariston Organette this week, and began inspection this
evening. The organ is a 24-key model (13 inch diameter disc), as you
suggest is most common. It is in playing condition, although nothing close
to mint. It appears to have had work done at some point--there is evidence
of recent regluing--but I'm not confident it was "professional" quality
work.

The only missing part I envision, and one that may be replaceable, is a
flat metal strip under the lip of the top rim of the case, mounted by
screws. 3 sides are complete and one missing. But what is their function?
Reinforcement? Do they secure the top? Are they original? They appear so.

The top appears complete, but somewhat damaged. The paper is peeling in
several areas, and is darkened from a varnish discoloration. The center
design may be missing--anyone know what's supposed to be there? There are
"stickers" around the circle which do not appear original. Anyone have
suggestions for removing them? They are solidly adhered, and I do not want
to damage the print underneath.

The top is also split across its width in two places, and has been
reinforced with crossmembers screwed underneath. Assuming they are not
original, what held it together when new? The lid appears to be a single
3/16 inch thick piece of wood--wouldn't it have been quite fragile?

The existing discs are numbers 131, 1343, 1939, 3549, and 3672, and have
minor damage to some slots. Is this likely due to excessive finger
pressure, or just normal wear? Are these numbers already in your archives?

I know I've asked many questions, but I find this to be a very interesting
organ. I'd love hearing from anyone who has either advice or experience, or
is just plain curious!

Thanks!

- Todd Augsburger
allmax@bright.net